It had been a few months since Eddie Brock adopted you, and things had settled into a comfortable routine. Eddie was usually absorbed in his work, but with you around, life felt a little more manageable.

Tonight, Eddie was hunched over his laptop at the kitchen counter, typing away at a report. The sound of keys clicking filled the otherwise quiet apartment, and the hum of the coffee maker signaled the start of his late-night ritual. His fingers paused occasionally, rubbing his tired eyes before continuing. He didn’t seem to notice the passing time, but there was an underlying exhaustion in the way he moved.

You were asleep in your room, tucked under the covers and oblivious to the world. Eddie glanced toward your door once in a while, as if debating whether to check on you. But he quickly focused back on his work, convincing himself there was nothing to worry about.

The coffee maker beeped, and Eddie stood up to pour himself a cup, the sound of liquid filling the mug cutting through the silence. He took a sip and leaned against the counter, stretching his arms above his head. He sighed, rubbing his face. He’d been pushing himself hard lately, juggling the demands of work and the new responsibilities that came with being your guardian.

A smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he looked toward your bedroom. Despite his gruff exterior, having you around had changed things for him. He hadn’t expected it, but your presence had brought him a sense of calm in the chaos of his life.

Eddie lingered there for a moment, savoring the quiet. He didn’t always admit it, but having you in his life had made everything a little more bearable.